ESTA Canada

Since November 10, 2016, the Canadian government has introduced a new authorization system to allow travelers to visit or transit Canada. Just like the ESTA authorization , this new measure makes life easier for travelers by offering them a faster and easier alternative than obtaining a standard American visa .

Entry into Canada now requires online application for an eTA Canada, for Electronic Travel Authorization. It’s a compulsory simplified visa for French citizens and member countries which can be obtained online from the Canadian administration.

Who can benefit from ESTA Canada?

Nationals from a large number of countries, including France, have the opportunity to apply for ESTA Canada. The request is made via the downloadable form found on the Canadian government website. The process takes a few minutes and you will need to simply bring your passport, which must have a period of validity sufficient to cover the period of your stay.

After a few days of checking, the authorities of the country will send you their answers by email.

Note: It should be noted that it is necessary to fill one form per person. For families, this means that you have to fill out a request for each adult and child.

ESTA Canada: a sesame with multiple benefits?

The authorization will be valid for a period of 5 years, or until the date of validity of your passport. After which you will have to renew the request. The document authorizes you to stay in Canada as often as you wish (for a maximum of 90 days per trip) during the term of validity of your ESTA Canada.

Note: A refusal does not mean that you are banned from staying, but that you will have to go through the embassy or consulate in order to obtain a visa.

The introduction of such a system is in line with a recent trend of governments wanting to strengthen the security of their borders, while financing the promotion of tourism with the help of taxes collected. After America and Canada, Europe is also on the verge of implementing its ETIAS travel authorization , with implementation scheduled for 2020.

For those wishing to go on a trip to the United States, you can call on a support team specializing in administrative procedures.